Program | DAY 2, THURSDAY, MAY 29
TBA | Please note that the program is evolving. There may be some changes.
Morning session - 9am to 11am
Money and Mob- Insights from Catherine Liddle
​​​​
In this session, Catherine Liddle, CEO of SNAICC – National Voice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children, will explore the unique challenges First Nations families and the critical role financial counsellors play in providing culturally safe support. Drawing on her experience in education, health, and advocacy, Catherine will discuss the need for systemic change and practical steps to empower First Nations communities.
Financial Counselling Industry Fund update
​​​​
It's been a year since the launch of the Financial Counselling Industry Fund.
FCIF CEO Elissa Freeman will give this update on the Fund’s priorities and approach to supporting the sector and what to expect going forward.
11.00 am
Morning Tea
9.00 am
FCA SPOT talks​​
​
Always a favourite. Seven brave souls, seven minutes, a spotlight and a microphone.
The theme this year is Shake it out. What will our speakers make of it? Strap yourself in for an hour of engaging and thought-provoking talks.
Convened by Jon Yeo.
Morning session - 11.30am to 1pm
Vulnerablity and the tax system
​​​​
Panel discussion
​Join expert panellists Rob Heferen, Commissioner of Taxation, Ruth Owen, Inspector General of Taxation, and Associate Professor Ann Kayis-Kumar, a leading researcher on tax and social equity, as they discuss the intersection of the tax system and vulnerability. This session will explore what can be done within existing settings to increase support for those experiencing vulnerability and their advocates, as well as other options to ensure greater fairness and accessibility.​​
Advocacy for change
Tim Barnett, FCA Board Member, has dedicated his career to championing the rights of vulnerable communities. He has been an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, campaigned against high interest loans, was formerly CEO of FinCap (our Aotearoa NZ partner organisation) and has also served as an MP in New Zealand's Parliament.
Drawing from his experience in social justice and policy reform, Tim will share insights on effective advocacy strategies in financial counselling and the critical role of law and policy reform in supporting those facing financial hardship.​​
Short and sharp
Hold onto your hats for these quickfire updates on things you need to know and more.
1pm
Lunch
Afternoon session - 2pm to 5pm
Concurrent sessions
See our concurrents page for more information.
3.30 pm
Afternoon Tea
Strengthening inclusion: Reaffirming our values in a divided world
We are alarmed by increasing polarisation and the pushback against workplace diversity in society. We believe it's essential to name and discuss these challenges. As a profession, financial counsellors are committed to being non-judgemental and inclusive. We want to reaffirm and strengthen these values.
President of the Human Rights Commission, Hugh De Kretser, will speak on these critical issues, providing insight into how we can navigate and respond to these societal shifts.
​
Thriving under pressure
​Gina Chick knows the importance of resilience and resourcefulness when it comes to thriving under extreme pressure. The survivalist, reality TV star and author will share her personal journey and the valuable lessons learned from her time in the wilderness. Gina offers a unique perspective on mental toughness and the coping strategies that can be applied to both personal and professional challenges, including those faced by financial counsellors.
Final word from the Chair of the FCA Board, Kylie Holford
Kylie will reflect on the journey we've been on over the past few days and outline some of the conference highlights.
5.00 pm close
​
​